As a couple, your wedding venue will be one of the most important decisions you make. Your venue will influence the rest of your plans, such as vendors, decor and even attire.
The venue is not only a crucial part of planning but also a very important aspect of your big day. No pressure? Your Best Wedding Venues in Sydney will set the tone for your event and have a lasting impact on it. We will take care of you! What you should consider when selecting the right space.
1. Budget First
Create a budget before you decide on a venue. Wait before signing any contract with an attractive venue, even if it is not fully booked for your desired date. Wait! You don’t need to find out later that you cannot afford another wedding requirement.
2. Decide Whether You’re A Venue Or Date First Couple
What comes first, the date or the venue? All depends on your preference. Do you prefer to get married at a certain time of the year, or do you want to secure your dream venue? The availability of the venue will often influence your decision on a date if you choose it first. The best venues are usually booked 12-18 months ahead, so the earlier you start planning the better your chances of getting your first choice.
3. Compare The Two Charts
Make it easier for yourself by creating a chart or spreadsheet to compare quickly. A spreadsheet can help you decide which venue best suits your priorities when comparing your options.
Include the following in your comparison chart:
- Venue name
- Location
- Capacity
- Type (hotel, ballroom, outdoor, historic, restaurant, country club etc.).
- The layout (can it accommodate the ceremonies, cocktail parties, dinners, and dancing?
- Rates
- Availability
- Time restrictions
- Parking and Transportation (Is the parking space enough for your guests? How far will they need to walk to their cars and back again, etc.?)
- Extras for the facility (A/V equipment and chairs, linens, tables, etc.).
- Catering restrictions (in-house caterer, or preferred list of caterers).
- Site link (to easily remember the venue with pictures on its site)
4. Choose Your Style
The venue you choose will determine the mood of your wedding. Having a vision in mind about what you want can help you make a decision.
- If you are looking for something rustic, then a barn, ranch or garden might be the perfect venue.
- You might prefer industrial warehouses, lofts in the city, or art galleries if your style is modern.
- You can even spend less on the decor if you choose an outdoor venue that has a natural backdrop.
You might be able to determine your venue by paying attention to the images you have in mind (or not).
5. Check Out Reviews
Look at multiple reviews to get a good idea of the venue. Do your own research before you take your friends’ advice. They may have different tastes and budgets. Do this research before you visit the venue to prepare questions or to know what to look out for.
6. Check Vendor Restriction
Even if a venue’s small list of vendors are great, it doesn’t mean that the venue itself is. Some venues charge extra fees if you choose to go off the preferred vendor list, or even refuse you access. Be sure to know what you are dealing with. Before signing with a venue, make sure you do your research, read reviews, talk to the vendors and try the cater.
Contact evoke photography for exceptional catering services, and a variety of menus that are perfect for weddings in all sizes!
7. If You Want Two Venues
When scouting for two venues, for example, one for your ceremony and another for your reception, make sure that the transition between the two is as smooth as possible. Plan your day with realistic start times by noting the travel time from one location to another. Keep in mind where you will be taking photos.
8. Consider The Out-of-Towners
Accessibility is a key element in a wedding. This is especially true for guests from out of town who may not be familiar with the local area.
- Can guests find nearby accommodations?
- Can they understand the directions to the venue and how to get there?
- Is it easy to find transport?
When choosing a venue for a wedding, all of these aspects should be taken into consideration. Avoid a messy situation.
9. Know The Curfew Of Your Venue
Pay attention to what the venue wants for the end time. Venues are sometimes required to adhere to noise ordinance restrictions they did not set. Even if your reception isn’t loud, it doesn’t mean it’s finished. Before signing on the dotted-line, make sure you’ve checked out overtime fees.
10. Avoid Choosing A Space That Is Too Large
It’s obvious that you cannot fit 300 people in a venue with only 150 seats, but it’s equally important that the space chosen for your event is not too large. You need enough space for your guests to feel comfortable and intimate, but not so much that it feels empty or awkward.
11. What Is The Backup Plan?
You’ll need to consider how the venue will handle your event in case something happens that is out of your hands. Will the venue be able to provide an emergency solution if you are getting married in a place that is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires or blizzards? You’ll also want to check if the venue can successfully implement a rain plan for less severe inclement weather. Be sure to also be happy with the space of Plan B.
12. Ask About Renovations
Ask about any planned renovations or major projects near the date you want to book or at the time of year that you’re considering. You don’t want to have your beautiful view or construction noise obstructed. It doesn’t matter if nothing is planned. Something will still happen. Choose a venue that you are confident about.
